Fabio Grosso says that he hopes people stop making comparisons between the current Italy national team and the side that won the World Cup in 2006, insisting that it ‘doesn’t help’ emerging young players, while also praising the qualities of Francesco Pio Esposito: ‘He’s proof there are good guys coming through’.
Grosso asks to stop Italy 2006 World Cup comparisons
Unlike the 2006 squad, Italy will have to go through the play-off campaign if they are to feature at the 2026 finals. That confirmation comes after a 4-1 defeat against Norway in San Siro on Sunday evening in Italy’s final game of the qualification groups.
Grosso, speaking in an interview with Radio Anch’io Sport, explained that making needless comparisons between the current Italy side and more successful teams from years gone by is of no use to the players.
“Making these comparisons with the past and with the 2006 national team does not help young players,” Grosso said (via Corriere dello Sport).
SASSUOLO – AUGUST 23: Fabio Grosso, Head Coach of Sassuolo, looks on during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and SSC Napoli at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on August 23, 2025 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“I believe in these guys’ qualities so much. We have to be better at getting them in the right place to be able to show themselves,” he continued.
“Constantly saying what we lack doesn’t help get us what we need. We have to be more balanced and recognise that we’ve had certain obvious shortcomings in recent years, and I’m not just talking about the players.
“We need to work to fill these gaps, which is what the national team deserves.”
One of the shining lights of this current Italy side is the emerging Pio Esposito, who now has three goals from five caps and has scored in both of his last two outings for Italy.
“Esposito is proof there are good guys coming through,” Grosso said.
MILAN – NOVEMBER 16: Pio Esposito of Italy celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“He’s young, strong, he’s also playing at high levels both with Inter and the national team. He’s a great thing for our football. We often say that we need to bring new guys in. He’s the demonstration that we have guys there, and they are good.
“Let’s start with the, and look to rebuild something great. We have to raise our level and we can do it by bringing fresh energy, with guys who want to play on big stages.”